[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 39 (Tuesday, March 6, 2018)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E263]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                        RECOGNITION OF MR. BELL

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DAVE BRAT

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 6, 2018

  Mr. BRAT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the passing of a 
constituent Richard Bell, Jr. Mr. Bell lived in Blackstone, and served 
as a truck driver in the renown Red Ball Express where he drove 
supplies to the front line in France during the invasion of Normandy. 
It was this group that preserved the 28 Army divisions through the 
summer and fall of 1944 throughout France and Belgium, and allowed the 
allied troops to advance relentlessly, pushing the Germans out.
   My office was privileged to assist his family when they learned 
there were seven medals he earned, but never received, during his 
service during World War II. Having the opportunity to present those 
medals to him at a special ceremony organized by his family is a memory 
I will never forget. I am extending my heartfelt sympathy to his family 
as they mourn his passing.

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